1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Kids would enjoy family friendly hikes like bear lake and Alberta falls. The Alluvian fan area of the park has a gorgeous mountain stream tumbling over rocks and becoming a gentle river on a flat riverbed. Our son enjoyed just walking along the river, feeling the ice cold water on his feet and throwing rocks in the river. This area was not crowded. We were one of a handful of people here. The Alpine Visitor Center offers gorgeous views, information, a gift shop and a cafe. Wildlife sightings in this park are easy as well.
Beautiful lakes in the National Park.
The mountain stream is gorgeous.
2. Denver Aquarium
More than just aquatic species, this aquarium has amphibians, rainforest creatures and a stingray touch tank. It was easy to spend a couple hours with our kid here.
This aquarium packs a lot of value for the family!
3. Royal Gorge Train and Royal Gorge Bridge
Train rides are enjoyable for kids. This one comes with seats in air-conditioning, meal service and great views. The Gorge bridge is especially fun for kids to walk across as long as they are not afraid of heights.
Epic train ride through the gorge.
This bridge is pretty high up!
4. Garden of the Gods
Interesting, colorful rock formations make up this park. There are several flat, short trails for kids to enjoy. The visitor center has gorgeous views and informative displays about the rocks and animal species found in the area.
Just like the name suggests, feels like backyard in heaven!
5. Durango Silverton train ride
I recommend this train ride for kids as it has an authentic narrow gauge steam engine. The ride is not long, but goes through beautiful mountains, streams and valleys. The scene of the train going over the bridges are especially a delight.
Classic vintage engine
6. Pike’s peak train ride
A fun way for kids to experience Pike’s Peak (the alternative being a 3-hr car ride). The ride offers a chance to see wildlife, mountain scenes and valleys.
Amazing scenary above the treeline.
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park
In the beginning of summer, Medano creek flows through the great sand dune area accessible easily from the parking area. This creek makes for a fun swimming or beach like experience. Kids would enjoy sliding down the dunes on a board as well.
Definitely take something to slide on.
8. Breckenridge Gondola to peak 8 for alpine activities
Epic Discovery has a theme park like setup with alpine coasters, mining activities, large trampoline bungees, rock climbing, mini golf etc… This is a perfect afternoon for adventurous kids and parents.
Our pup got used to riding gondolas.
9. Telluride Gondola
The Telluride gondola is located close to the downtown area. There are shops, restaurants and many activities at the various levels of the stops. However it makes for a fun, free, gorgeous ride just by itself.
The boys hanging out inside a mock gondola.
10. Blue lakes trail near Breckenridge
The parking for this trail is down a dirt road. It tends to get full early in the day. We arrived around midday and were able to find a spot. The lake surrounded by mountains, is just below the parking lot (although we are unsure if this is the actual blue lake). Following a small river crossing, the trail can be followed across the lake to a nice waterfall. Our son and pup really enjoyed this area.
It was a stunning setting with mountains and lakes.